Stephen Robert, co-founder of the Source of Hope Foundation, former chairman and CEO of the Oppenheimer Group, and chancellor emeritus of Brown University, also previously chaired the school’s Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs. The Watson Institute opened a new 25,000-square-foot dedicated program addition in 2019, and named it Stephen Robert Hall in his honor. The Watson Institute brings together students and scholars dedicated to helping solve crucial world problems such as hunger, poverty, inequality, armed conflict, and the threats posed by rapid urbanization and industrialization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the institute has continued to host incisive virtual events with some of the world’s leading experts across multiple fields of study. In May and June 2021, these conversations, webinars, and participatory discussions included topics such as President Joe Biden’s first 100 days and his economic programs, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the tragic legacy of racial inequalities in the United States. The Watson Institute’s June 15 program, “From the Streets to the Newsroom: Reporting on Race,” featured a panel of journalism professionals with backgrounds working with CNN and The New York Times. This event was one of many that have examined global racism. Similar recent programs have included one on understanding the threat of the White Power movement and white supremacy generally held in March. In February, attendees could learn more about the emerging politics in the Caribbean region. And a January event juxtaposed the phenomena of racism, the educational system, and criminal justice.

1. Stephen Robert

2. Stephen Robert, co-founder of the Source of Hope Foundation, former
chairman and CEO of the Oppenheimer Group, and chancellor emeritus of
Brown University, also previously chaired the school’s Watson Institute for
International and Public Affairs. The Watson Institute opened a new
25,000-square-foot dedicated program addition in 2019, and named it
Stephen Robert Hall in his honor.

3. The Watson Institute brings together students and scholars dedicated to
helping solve crucial world problems such as hunger, poverty, inequality,
armed conflict, and the threats posed by rapid urbanization and
industrialization.

4. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the institute has continued to host
incisive virtual events with some of the world’s leading experts across
multiple fields of study. In May and June 2021, these conversations,
webinars, and participatory discussions included topics such as President
Joe Biden’s first 100 days and his economic programs, the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict, and the tragic legacy of racial inequalities in the
United States.

5. The Watson Institute’s June 15 program, “From the Streets to the
Newsroom: Reporting on Race,” featured a panel of journalism
professionals with backgrounds working with CNN and The New York
Times. This event was one of many that have examined global racism.
Similar recent programs have included one on understanding the threat
of the White Power movement and white supremacy generally held in
March. In February, attendees could learn more about the emerging
politics in the Caribbean region. And a January event juxtaposed the
phenomena of racism, the educational system, and criminal justice.